Obama: Gun control a tougher slog than immigration

ATHERTON, Calif. (AP) — President Barack Obama says passing new gun control measures will be a tougher slog than immigration reform.

Obama says he's optimistic immigration can get done within the next few months, because the impact of the November election is breaking through partisan gridlock.

He says legislation to reduce gun violence will be more difficult. But he says he thinks it can still happen if Americans get engaged.

Obama has been pushing Congress to act on both issues. Senators are preparing a bipartisan immigration bill that's expected to be released next week. But efforts in Congress to curb gun violence appear to be losing steam.

Obama spoke at a campaign event in California for the Democratic National Committee. It's one of four fundraisers he's doing for Democrats this week.